Volkswagen has released new details and a huge photo gallery of the eighth generation Passat, which debuted at the Paris Auto Show last week.

Up to 85 kg (187.4 lbs) lighter than its predecessor, the latest Passat features an all-new engine lineup that’s up to 20 percent more fuel-efficient. The new model is offered with ten TSI and TDI engines with outputs ranging from 120PS to 280PS. All versions are equipped with a stop-start system and a regenerative braking mode. A dual clutch gearbox (DSG) is available as an option for all engine versions, and is standard for the top engine.

There are five TSI engines to choose from, beginning with an entry-level 125PS 1.4 TSI unit that is also available in a more powerful 150PS version with active cylinder management (ACT). The latter averages 4.9 l/100 km (48 mpg US) and 115 g/km CO2, making it 1.3 l/100 km more fuel-efficient than the comparable previous model. Moving further up the range, there’s a 2.0-liter TSI unit offered with three output levels:180PS, 220PS and 280PS.

For the first time the Passat is available with a GTE plug-in hybrid version with an overall output of 218PS. The Passat GTE has an all-electric driving range of 50 km (31 miles).

The diesel lineup also includes five engines, starting with a 1.6 TDI producing 120PS, also to be offered later in a more frugal BlueMotion version. A 2.0-liter TDI is offered with three output levels: 150PS, 190PS and 240PS. The latter is a twin-turbo engine that produces 500Nm (369lb-ft) of torque, allowing the sedan to reach a top speed of 240 km/h (149 mph). Fitted as standard with the 4Motion all-wheel drive system and the 7-speed DSG transmission, the range-topping diesel averages just 5.3l/100 km (44.4 mpg US), equating to 139 g/km of CO2.

The new Passat will be offered with three equipment lines: Trendline, Comfortline and Highline. Standard features for the base grade include 16-inch wheels with 215 tyres and LED rear lights, front center armrest with storage compartment, height adjustment for the front seats, Keyless Go, Driver Alert, Automatic Post-Collision Braking, tyre pressure indicator, the “Composition Colour” radio system with 5-inch touchscreen, the “Plus” multi-function display, daytime running lights, Hill Hold Assist, Auto Hold, air conditioning and a coasting function (for DSG-equipped models).

The Passat Comfortline adds Front Assist including City Emergency Braking, while the Passat Highline comes with Alcantara/leather trim and LED headlights, among other features.

Arriving in German dealerships in mid-November, the new Passat is priced from €25,875 for the saloon and €25,950 for the estate in its home market. The model will reach European showrooms shortly after and will arrive in other international markets including right-hand drive markets in 2015.

PHOTO GALLERY